Back when the iPhone 14 launched in 2022, it included a new feature that let you tap into Globalstar satellite networks to get service when stranded outside of cellular coverage. At the time, the service was free for users in the U.S. and Canada with a two-year trial.
A year later, Apple expanded the service to 16 countries and added an extra year of coverage to align with the launch of the iPhone 15. That coverage was supposed to end this month, but Apple has announced that users of those phones will get another free year of service, extending to September 9, 2026.
Apple also announced satellite communication on the Apple Watch Ultra 3, which will be free for two years. The same goes for the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and Air, as well as the iPhone 16 and 16e. Here’s when the trial periods end for the various devices:
- iPhone 14/15: September 2022 to September 9, 2026
- iPhone 16: February 2027 to September 2028
- iPhone 16e: February 2027 to September 2028 (or earlier depending on the 17e)
- iPhone 17/17 Pro: September 2027 to September 2028
- iPhone Air: Up to September 2027 to September 2028
- Apple Watch Ultra 3: September 2027 to September 2028
Depending on when you bought your iPhone, you could be getting up to five years of free satellite service, and if you buy one of the newer devices sometime over the next 12 months, you won’t have to worry about a satellite bill until nearly 2029. It begs the question: Will Apple ever charge for satellite service?
Most plans range in the $10 per month range, so Apple could create a separate iPhone+ service at some point. Or it could add it as a perk for AppleCare subscribers. Ot maybe Apple will just keep the free trial going forever.
Author: Michael Simon, Executive Editor, Macworld
Michael Simon has been covering Apple for more than 20 years. He started covering rumors with Spymac when the iPod was the iWalk, and has owned nearly every iPhone Apple has ever made. He lives in Connecticut with his wife, son, and far too many gadgets.